خالات
khalat
The English phrase 'aunts' is translated into Arabic as خالات (khalat), specifically referring to maternal aunts.
خالات is used to refer to the sisters of one's mother.
What does it mean word for word?
خالات is the feminine plural form of the noun for a maternal aunt.
Which one should you use?
While خالات refers specifically to maternal aunts (the sisters of one's mother), the term عمات is used to refer to paternal aunts.
How does it change in a sentence?
The singular form of the plural خالات is خالة.
How do you pronounce it?
khalat
Did you know?
- In Arabic, the word for maternal aunt خالة shares a linguistic root with the word for 'emptiness' or 'void', possibly reflecting the aunt's role as a neutral mediator who exists outside the direct paternal line of authority.
- In many Arabic dialects, calling a stranger خالتي or 'my maternal aunt' is a common way to show respect and warmth toward an older woman. It is not strictly limited to biological relatives.
- Because maternal aunts خالات are viewed as the 'heart' of the family, calling an older woman خالتي is often perceived as more affectionate and tender than calling her عمتي, which can feel more formal.
Examples in context
- عندي أربع عَمَّاتI have four aunts.
- أحب خالاتي كثيراًI love my aunts very much.
- خالاتي كثيرات.khalati kathirat.My aunts are many.
- هل زرتِ خالاتكِ اليوم؟hal zurti khalatiki al-yawm?Did you visit your aunts today?
- خالاتي يعشن في القاهرة.khalaati ya'ishna fi al-qahira.My aunts live in Cairo.
Example conversation
Mariam and Ziad are talking about family members at a cafe.
- مريم Maryamكيف حال خالاتك يا زياد؟kayfa hal khalatika ya Ziad?How are your aunts, Ziad?
- زياد Ziadهن بخير، شكراً لكِ.hunna bikhayr, shukran laki.They are fine, thank you.
- مريم Maryamهل ستزور خالاتك في العيد؟hal satazur khalataka fi al-eid?Will you visit your aunts during the holiday?
- زياد Ziadنعم، سأذهب إليهن قريباً.na'am, sa-adhhab ilayhinna qariban.Yes, I will go to them soon.
